Getting more sleep. Joining a book club. Winning a targeted battleground House seat.

No matter what shape your resolutions are taking this year, I know achieving them is much easier said than done.

Here are the steps I take when I'm working to achieve a major goal. My hope is that they’ll help you tackle your own resolution for 2026 as well!

1. Find your “why.”

There are about a thousand reasons why I felt compelled to run for Congress again, but this was the sticking point: After 30 years defending American lives and laws, I refuse to abandon my duty in this moment of historic crisis for our nation.

Fighting my way back to Capitol Hill won’t be easy, and that’s OK with me. My North Star, my “why,” will help me navigate the challenges ahead.

2. Identify obstacles.

A lackluster message, poor planning, attacks from opponents, unexpected dark-money cash dumps, shifting political winds, lack of funding…there’s no shortage of obstacles that can slow or even halt campaign momentum.

I can’t avoid every possible pitfall, but I can minimize the danger by staying clear-eyed and well-informed, addressing small issues before they snowball, and keeping plans B, C, and D in my back pocket.

3. Set milestones.

Winning a battleground House race is a lofty goal. Setting smaller milestones along the way makes the process more manageable and accountable. For instance:

• Roll out our launch.
• Execute our budget and message strategy.
• Secure key endorsements.
• File a strong FEC report.
• Reach across the aisle to undecided and swing voters.
• Flesh out my pro-national security, pro-prosperity, and anti-corruption agenda.
• Prepare for and win debates. Invest in an effective voter turnout strategy.
• Flip VA-02 and take back Congress.

John, if we want America to remain an international beacon of freedom for another two-and-a-half centuries, we cannot afford to lose this race.

Please consider contributing today to help me achieve the goal of flipping VA-02 and electing a Freedom First majority to Congress. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s an investment in your family’s future.